Embraer Plans European Office

By Gabriel Araujo

(Reuters) – Brazilian planemaker Embraer’s defense unit is planning to open an office in Europe, as sales of its C-390 Millennium military cargo aircraft gain momentum in the region.

The Czech Republic, Austria, the Netherlands, and Sweden have recently moved to purchase the aircraft, joining current operators Portugal and Hungary, highlighting strong momentum for the C-390 in Europe.

"We are interested in opening an Embraer Defense & Security office in Europe, likely in Portugal," said defense unit Chief Executive Bosco da Costa Junior in an interview on Sunday.

Portugal, the first European NATO country to order the C-390 in 2019, received its first aircraft last year and is also expected to fulfill orders for Embraer's A-29 Super Tucano light attack fighter.

Earlier this year, the Brazilian planemaker identified the European Union as a key market for C-390 sales, alongside India, Saudi Arabia, and the United States.

Sweden is the latest country to select the aircraft, stating it would open negotiations for the C-390 to replace its aging Lockheed Martin C-130 Hercules turboprops.

Costa highlighted that the goal of this office is to position Embraer Defense & Security as a European player, ensuring it meets all NATO security clearances.

Expanding its presence abroad and securing more C-390 sales has been a key goal for Embraer's defense division, particularly targeting orders from NATO nations.

"We want to invest in Europe. We want a seat at the table. Our aircraft has significant European content, and we have been increasing it with new setups," Costa added.

According to BTG Pactual analysts, Europe comprises 14% of the C-390’s total addressable market, following Asia-Pacific (34%) and the Middle East (32%).